Miami County Foundation Honors Local Man's Quiet Legacy 
Information provided
MIAMI COUNTY – The Miami County Foundation recently honored the legacy of Michael Hargis, a longtime Miami County resident whose kind and humble spirit lives on in the remarkable gift he left his community.

   Michael, a familiar face behind the bar at Harrison’s in Tipp City, lived a life defined by hard work, modesty, and quiet compassion. When he died unexpectedly in 2020, Michael’s friends knew that his only wish would be to make sure his sister, Theresa, was well cared for at Vancrest Upper Valley (formerly Koester Pavilion) where she lived happily during her final years. Following Theresa’s passing, and with the thoughtful guidance of his attorneys, Michael’s estate was directed to the Miami County Foundation and became one of the largest donations in its 40-year history.

 

   In October, the foundation dedicated a memorial bench to Theresa at the Vancrest facility. Present to share in this gift from Michael to his beloved sister were friends, family and many of the Vancrest staff. The bench stands as a tribute to the siblings’ enduring bond and is a reminder that care and kindness can resonate far beyond a single life.

 

   “Michael’s gift truly reflects the spirit of Miami County — people helping people, often quietly and without fanfare,” said Lisa Sargent, Executive Director of the foundation. “We’re honored to be on the receiving end of this incredible gift and will steward it in a way that makes Michael proud and strengthens the community he and his sister called home.”

 

   The donation will support the foundation’s awarding of grant funds to nonprofits, schools, and municipalities throughout the county. To learn more about the Miami County Foundation and its impact, visit www.miamicountyfoundation.org.